Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy stated that Russian President Vladimir Putin has ordered the military to neutralize the entire Donetsk region by December 31st. In response to these directives, analysts from the US Institute for the Study of War (ISW) suggest that the stated goals indicate a divergence between the Kremlin’s objectives and the actual military situation on the battlefield. According to President Zelenskyy, Russia’s primary operational focus remains on the cities of Kharkiv, Sloviansk, and Kramatorsk, which are identified as a cluster of heavily fortified Ukrainian positions within the Donetsk area.
ISW analysts estimate that the directive for Putin to neutralize the entire region sets an unrealistic target. The assessment suggests this may stem from a misunderstanding of current battlefield realities. Furthermore, analysts noted that the goals set by Moscow appear to be among the lowest objectives the nation has established for itself.
The reporting maintains that the stated timeline and scope represent significant military objectives set by the Russian leadership.
Topics: #putin #ordered #president